Envelop yourself in Cosmic Purple, a deep, rich violet with a slight indigo undertone. This color not only evokes a futuristic vibe, but it sparks our desire for curiosity through its mysterious depth. A symbol of royalty, Cosmic Purple creates a dignified feeling of power and luxury. When used with confidence, this impressive color transforms a dull interior into one brimming with character.

Organic Approach

A dramatically expressive shade, Cosmic Purple conjures up a sense of creativity and fantasy with unexpected balance and harmony. Pairing it with natural elements is a great way to tone down the space and let the color take center stage. Warm wood surfaces, organic lines and shapes, and earthy materials are grounding, allowing the vibrant purple to stand confidently against them and make a statement. Earthy, brown hues warm up the palette while bright greens and blues accentuate the boldness of Cosmic Purple.

Amorphous Forms

Take it out of this world with Cosmic Purple by using the color in swirling lines and digitally inspired shapes that express movement and evoke positive energy. Illuminating the room with iridescent lighting will help to enhance this effect by giving off a cool, futuristic vibe that is entirely unique and exotic.

Dim it Down

Sensual and sophisticated, Cosmic Purple can transform your space into a moody atmosphere. A choice of dim, warm lighting will add to the overall ambiance by creating a romantic sense of comfort and coziness. A mix of soft textures and natural materials will enhance this feeling through the subdued and humble quality of these elements.

Home Tour: 1900’s Firehouse

My wildest dreams have been realized, and I recall it every day, when I wake up to a pair of enormous arched french style doors. I imagine the horse driven fire wagons galloping into my now loft after saving lives in the surrounding community.

While I do not live like I imagine the firemen must have, I do live like the artist/creative/interior designer that I am becoming more of everyday. I truly believe this firehouse brings out the best in me and gives me the perfect backdrop for honing my craft.

Within this space I feel uninhibited; more adventurous, brilliant and creative than I’ve ever felt in my career and I do believe it shows in my work. How we live influences how we feel and perform on a conscious and subconscious level, so every element in my space is designed to aid me in being a better artist and designer for my clients. From the shape and positioning of the furniture, to the color and texture of the fabrics, to the walls, to the way light flows into my space.

I took advantage of the tall ceilings by hand painting the walls in my art textures which I am quickly becoming well known for (my designs & walls have been featured on NBC’s OpenHouse NYC). Each wall in my space has a special message written beneath the paint with overlaying metallic hues from Benjamin Moore and Modern Masters.

My furniture is a blend of antique/vintage pieces, hand crafted elements and a few modern fixtures. One of my favorite furniture pieces is my vintage scooter console that lights up and displays many of my favorite shoes and books. The artwork I chose is by my thirteen year old son, Aiden Hackett, who I believe is nothing short of a young Basquiat. He and I love to get together for our mom and son Art sessions. Click here to see my loft in 1905.

With 28 individually styled rooms and suites, tree-filled courtyards, hideaway nooks and a 7,000 square foot roof terrace, El Fenn is the perfect retreat from which to enjoy Africa’s most exotic city. But who would guess that the luxurious hotel was once an almost ruined courtyard of one of Marrakech’s formerly great private homes? We love how this resort completely transformed its look with an unexpected vibrancy that matches the island’s vibe.

Past Life

While looking for a holiday house, Vanessa Branson and Howell James stumbled across a nearly destroyed property in 2002 and soon realized that the atmospheric riad was going to become so much more. Combining grandeur and historic architecture, the two created a home from home retreat through the lens of the building’s past with a contemporary, decorative twist. Local craftsman used traditional techniques to breathe new life into the building and create an experience for guests that would connect them with the surrounding culture.

Cultural Infusion

In addition to the suites, El Fenn has three swimming pools, a restaurant, bar, spa and library due to the purchase of neighboring riads and the expertise of renowned Moroccan architect, Amine Kabbaj. Polished lime plastering was used in a rainbow of colors to create walls, baths and bed frames, original tiling was renovated, and carved cedar ceilings were restored. Retro furniture sourced from local flea markets was combined with one-off bespoke pieces for an interior that is entirely unique and authentic. Doused in rich, bold colors, ornate patterns and organic materials, each and every corner of these amenities are inspired by the nearby, world-famous Djemaa el Fna square and its thriving Moroccan culture.

Home from Home

Despite the two year renovation the former private home has gone through, the essence of El Fenn remains. It’s a place to kick back and enjoy the tranquility of an abundance of hidden spaces before stepping outside to soak up the atmosphere of a city that’s captivated everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Winston Churchill. At El Fenn, guests are welcomed to indulge in the culture and find comfort in a place that feels like home from thousands of miles away.

About El Fenn:

After a two year renovation, El Fenn opened with six bedrooms in March 2004. Since then twenty-two more rooms and suites, tree swimming pools, a restaurant, bar, spa and library have been added thanks to the purchase of neighboring roads and the expertise of renowned Moroccan architect Amine Kabbaj. Combining grandeur and historic architecture with hideaway nooks, terraces and gardens, the hotel is just five minutes walk from the world-famous Djemaa el Fna square and bustling maze of streets that make up the souk.

Smog Free Project

Led by Daan Roosegaarde, Smog Free Project is a series of urban innovations to reduce pollution and provide an inspirational experience of a clean future. The project consists of Smog Free Tower, Smog Free Jewelry and Smog Free Bicycle, all providing a local solution of clean air in public spaces. Here along with governments, students and the clean-tech industry, people can work together to make a whole city smog free.

Smog Free Tower

The 7 meters high Smog Free Tower is the largest air purifier in the world. It creates a bubble of clean air enabling citizens to experience clean air for free. Using patented ozone-free ion technology and a small amount of green electricity, the Smog Free Tower cleans 30.000m3 per hour. It captures and collects more than 75% of airborne smog particles while releasing clean air in a 360 degrees motion around the tower.

Smog Free Jewelry

Proudly wear your support for a green earth with the Smog Free Jewelry, a tangible souvenir of the project. The Smog Free Ring and Smog Free Cufflinks are made from compressed smog particles collected from the Smog Free Tower. By sharing a Smog Free Ring, you donate 1000m3 of clean air.

Smog Free Bicycle

The newest addition to the project, Smog Free Bicycle inspires clean air by sucking up polluted air, cleaning it and giving the clean air to the cyclist. The design is inspired by the manta ray, a fish which filters water for food. Working in a similar way, the bicycle uses a plug-in device on the steering wheel which filters the air. It is intended to become a medium for smog free cities, creating an impact on the larger urban scale.

About Daan Roosegaarde:

Studio Roosegaarde is the social design lab of Dutch artist and innovator Daan Roosegaarde. Together with his team of designers and engineers Roosegaarde creates landscapes of the future for a better world. The studio connects people, technology and space to improve daily life in urban environments and spark imagination.

Check out our 3 favorite trends from NY NOW below!

1. Organic Texture

Stripping back the layers with textiles, organic textures were everywhere! Creating a dimensional effect, these textiles feature a unique surface quality consisting of organic lines and forms that reflect elements found in nature such as moss, wood grain, stones and more. Soft rugs with varying pile heights and textiles with burn out effects were executed in a neutral palette, emphasizing this organic trend.

2. Sunset Hues

This trend had us craving a shift in the seasons! Moody reds, deep passionate pinks and warm oranges took over the show in all forms. Throw blankets, furniture, rugs, and tableware featured these colors both independently and as a palette. Sunset Hues in soft materials such as suede and velvet accentuated the warmth of this trend.

3. Maximalism

Move over minimalism! Maximalism made a bold entrance at the show with products that ooze with personality. Oversized and whimsical silhouettes in bright, vibrant colors such as hot pink, chartreuse, lipstick red, and electric purple took center stage. High gloss finishes made the pieces stand out even more, adding to the surreal and playful appeal of these pieces.

Go Behind the Scenes at The Pierre, A Taj Hotel

On our third episode of Five Star Stay we are taking you to the Presidential Suite at The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, designed by James Park Associates. Originally the mansion of Commodore Elbridge T. Gerry, architects Schultze and Weaver found inspiration in the French château design and created a Georgian brick-and-granite structure to replace the building. Perfectly placed along Central Park, the renowned hotel that stands today is all about location, location, location.

CHECK OUT OUR TOP 3 TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS FIVE STAR RESORT:

1. Attention to Detail

Every element in this suite is done with purpose and with the guest experience in mind. Although the suite features an all over beige interior, beautiful drapery and plump upholstered furniture warm up the space, creating a livable atmosphere you can truly indulge in. The living room has stunning, curved sofas with button tucks while the master bathroom includes a fabulous shower that shoots at every angle, a full jacuzzi bathtub and mirrors galore.

2. Landmark Hotel

Situated on 61st Street in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, The Pierre offers scenic views of Central Park and a quick walk to some of the best shopping in the world. With lush greenery in the summer and a warm sea of orange and reds in the fall, the park views from this hotel are outrageous all year round. Just steps from the luxury boutiques of Fifth & Madison Avenues, The Pierre is the perfect destination for the discerning traveler who wants to experience unrivaled hospitality in New York City.

3. Timeless Materials

From the textiles, to the glass, to the wallcoverings, everything in this suite is immaculate. Nothing speaks more five star luxury than a silk and wool carpet that feels amazingly soft under your feet as you glide across the stunning space. The wallpaper features a delicate, tonal pattern that is unobtrusive, yet sophisticated and stylish. Murano glass is used in just about every corner to complete the high end design of this suite.

STAY TUNED NEXT MONTH AS WE UNCOVER ANOTHER LUXURIOUS SUITE ON FIVE STAR STAY!

Skeleton Coast is known for its treacherous weather, rough surf and shifting shores. How did this impact the design approach?“To ensure that guests are comfortable no matter what the weather, everything manufactured for the lodges needed to be able to withstand the weather, from wind, to cold, to fog, to heat. We provided the lodges with optimum finishes for the environment including reclaimed material of both wood and metal. The walkways are made out of strips of recycled tires, offering just enough support for guests to walk. A slight cover of sand actually enhances the whole effect.”

Describe the use of color, material and pattern. What inspired these choices?“We took inspiration from the nature around Skeleton Coast to engage the senses of feel, see, and smell. The color palette is directly derived from the area – blues, red plums, copper, and purples reflecting all different moods. For instance, there is Lichen fields which becomes a beautiful red plum with just the right amount of fog while various tones of blue turn into greens. A rug in the lounge was inspired by water on the beach and the blinds in the bedroom actually look like pulled up sails from a boat. Most of the furniture is made of reclaimed materials to reinforce the idea of a shipwreck, while cotton and silk bedding are meant to comfort guests.”

Shipwreck Lodge Chalet

How did you take the overall guest experience at Shipwreck Lodge into account when designing? What design element was it crucial to include?“We want to take guests back in time, encouraging them to become part of the amazing history and experience of being isolated in one of the most pristine and beautiful areas in the world. To play into this feeling of isolation, we’ve given guests the choice of privacy with various small, intimate spaces in the main area. Artwork on the sliding doors represent the history and image of a shipwreck, evoking an emotional response from guests. At Shipwreck Lodge, you do not feel like you are in a lodge, but rather stranded in a tilted shipwreck.”

The chalets feature an unusual yet unique architecture. How did this impact your design decisions?“Every element of the interior needed to absolutely complement the architecture. We had to design beds that fit into the slant of the walls and create a rodded system to support the natural fall of the blinds with gravity. Bathroom windows are slanted portholes to allow light into the bathroom, so we had to come up with a design to compromise privacy. As a solution we created round “plug” windows which have the world map engraved on them and can be removed from the porthole to be hung as art if not in use.”

What is your most memorable design?“The most memorable is, of course, not always the best! That said, the one that sticks in my mind the most had a happy outcome mainly due to the collaborative approach with architecture design studio, Nissen Richards. I was commissioned to make a new work for the Summer 2015 exhibition at the National Media Museum in Bradford, UK. The final outcome was An Additive Mix, a 10m x 5m purpose build room clad with mirrors on all walls and a ceiling rig consisting of 250 6ft fluorescent lamps, each a completely different hue (filter). This installation took the principal that all colors in light collectively make white; additive mixing.”

What is one of your favorite projects you’ve designed? Why?“My most recent work, Aglow, is amongst my favorites. I enjoy so many elements of this work, especially the color palette, how it acts as a sundial when in direct sunlight and how it beautifully reflects the surroundings. Each time I exhibit the work it looks completely different and takes on a new life. However, the main brief for the commissioned work was to celebrate female creativity and to empower women. Aglow is my hymn to this concept; with its sensory visuals, multifaceted interpretations, the relationship between light and color and also the space it inhabits.”

What’s on your experiential bucket list? Why?“Two of my favorite artists are James Turrell and Olafur Eliasson. There are many of their works which I would like to experience first hand. On my bucket list of things to experience is also the sensory overload of certain cities, particularly those in India, are high on my agenda. The rush and combination of smells, tastes, textures, sounds and sights is very applying to me. The closest I have go so far is the souks of Morocco.”

About Liz West

Liz West is a British artist (b.1985) who graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 2007. West’s broad body of work encompasses wall-based artwork, sculpture, and site-specific installations. She creates vivid environments that mix luminous colour and radiant light with the purpose of provoking a heightened sensory awareness in the viewer.

A muted neutral with a hint of green, Moonstone is complex yet crisp with an unexpected warmth. Possessing a gleaming quality, this delicate hue is both captivating and sophisticated, creating an elevated appeal. This nuanced color can transport us to a place of sanctuary, minimizing stress and encouraging a meditative mindset as it aids us in embracing our inner strength. Emerging in both lustrous and matte finishes, Moonstone is a versatile hue that adds overall balance to a space.

Live in Luxury

Pair Moonstone with lustrous surfaces to create a futuristic appeal that is elegant and refined. The shiny finish will make the space feel reminiscent of celestial objects, transporting us to a mesmerizing atmosphere. Using this color on the walls, floor and ceiling will emphasize this feeling and really heighten the space.

Pure Serenity

Featuring a soft and subtle appearance, Moonstone can add a sense of tranquility to your space. Use this ethereal color in a bathroom to transform it into a spa-inspired oasis where you can indulge in luxury. The addition of sleek, modern lines and shiny surfaces will complete the look. Even consider pairing it with a deep, emerald to bring out the tint of green in Moonstone.

Cozy Corner

Because Moonstone is a neutral color, you can layer the space with tons of fun texture and pattern. Choose irresistibly soft and comfy decorative pillows paired with a plush throw for the sofa. A cozy rug with a pop of color and pattern will bring personality to the space creating more interest. All of these elements together will warm up Moonstone, making the space a place where you can truly indulge in comfort.

Making a Deeper Connection

At Play Design Hotel, design is a personalized and genuine experience, not only an aesthetic. By transforming the hotel into an interface that connects design with the hotel, local designers can finally demonstrate and promote their artisan products. While the artists gain their deserved recognition, guests are able to take advantage of their stay to contact, learn and experience the local works. Both the designer and guest become connected with one another through the fusion of design and culture.

Exploring a Theme

Rooms of Play Design Hotel are transformed into “inhabitable design galleries” which incorporate artifacts divided into ten categories: desk, chair, guest chair, side table, coffee table, coat rack, stand lamp, pendant lamp, desk lamp and clock. With a choice of two different innovative rooms concepts, Theme Rooms and Guest Room Selections, the experience only gets better from here. Featuring a collection of designers’ works, Theme Rooms are a space for exploration. For example, in Local Fun Room, the guest can find postcards in correspondence with the design artifacts inside the room and leave their comments to the designers. This is as rewarding for the designer as it is captivating for the guest.

A Personalized Stay

Guest Room Selections, on the other hand, provide a personalized experience for guests. The space is furnished according to the specially curated items guests choose from the ten categories. They can make their own story while discovering the one-of-a-kind and quality design of Taiwan culture. Being able to choose, display and ultimately experience the room how they please makes this hotel entirely unique and filled with personality.

Play Design Hotel – Guest Selection Room

Evolving Hotel Experience

Meaningful design elements that pay respect to the local culture display the link between the hotel industry and design industry. More tourists are looking to travel to destinations where they can have intimate contact with local cultures. With interactive design and spaces that function as an interface, Play Design Hotel creates a new business model, new experience, and new possibilities.

Go Behind the Scenes at JW Marriott Essex House

On our second episode of Five Star Stay, we’re taking you to the Presidential Suite at the JW Marriott Essex House, designed by Wimberly Interiors, a design studio of WATG, to uncover what makes this hotel such an exclusive experience for guests. From the large, elegant living space to the stunningly stylish bathroom, this property will having you living in utmost luxury.

Check out our top 3 takeaways from this five star resort:

1. Artistic Detail

A captivating, oversized tile mosaic above the bathtub makes a statement, while glossy black vanities and finishes complement the guest room design. The use of this lustrous material and shiny metal adds an unexpected pop as it references back to the era of when the hotel first opened its doors in the 1930’s.

2. Modern Design with Park Views

The hotel’s design concept captures the strong historical roots of the property in a modern and sophisticated way. A bold, yet neutral color palette accompanied by breathtaking views of Central Park’s lush greenery, lakes and historic stone bridges elevate the entire experience of a stay at this renowned hotel.

Discover Deep Sea, a stunning aquatic teal we’re loving this month! Not only are we mesmerized by this jewel-toned blue, but we’re taken on an adventure, as Deep Sea evokes a well-traveled feeling that encourages curiosity and a desire for exploration. With global roots, you’ll encounter this hue all around the world, like while sitting on a breathtaking coast line overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Here are some tips on how you can utilize Deep Sea into your interiors.

Global Inspiration

Incorporating Deep Sea, into your space creates a sense of global connection. Try using it as an
overall, textured paint color with uneven layers for a more organic look that’s reminiscent
of the ocean. Introduce contrasting bold colors and fun pops of patterns into the room for an
eclectic and universal feel.

Tile Takeover

A master bathroom is a great space to use this color, as you can choose a glossy tile reminiscent of the shimmering sea. Be bold by fully immersing yourself into an underwater-inspired atmosphere, with floor to ceiling tiles on the walls and even on the countertops in Deep Sea.

Playing With Finishes

With Deep Sea, the finish can make a difference! A lustrous surface such as velvet or silk will create a totally elegant feel while a matte surface will create a more down to earth look with it’s striking tonal depth. Take a courageous approach by pairing these two finishes together for a space with an unexpected boldness.

David Manica, founder of MANICA Architecture, believes in stunning design and innovative function as the path to successful design. Enjoyed by millions of people around the world, his designs have a profoundly positive effect on the life of entire cities. At The Monarch Bar in Kansas City, David designed the space with the intention of creating a social environment that evokes a feeling of luxury while remaining comfortable and inviting. We asked David some questions to grasp a better understanding of his approach for the bar’s design concept.

The stunning art installation hovering over the center bar clearly takes inspiration from the Bar’s name. Why the name ‘Monarch’ and how did this play into the design concept of the space?“Honestly, I just liked the timeless and classic sound of the word, but I did not want to move toward crowns, royalty, and monarchy. Instead, I decided to center the concept around the Monarch butterfly because it is graceful, beautiful, and incredibly tenacious. The signature chandelier above the central bar was installed by local artisans and includes 1,000 acrylic butterflies. With the LED color changing lighting, it looks as though the swarm of butterflies is moving and dancing through the space.”

You describe The Parlour Room as a “behind closed doors, invitation-only” bar. How does this create a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?“Exclusivity is certainly part of the experience. Very dark and difficult to find its edges when the lights are low, the one-of-a-kind experience is really supported through its premium service and the unique menu. We are very fortunate to have access to some of the rarest spirits in the country, so if you find yourself in the Parlour, you’ll be able to enjoy a drink that not too many others in the country could. I like to think of the Parlour as a panic room that you don’t want to leave. Safe, cozy, and filled with the best liquor in the world.”

What materials were used in the space? How were these materials utilized to create a sense of refined opulence?“We considered every detail when we designed the interiors. We utilized book matched marble slabs with herringbone wood floors and velvet banquette cushions. The walls and ceiling were dressed in a highly detailed casework trim and rich fabrics. We also spent a lot of time and energy making sure that the exquisite finishes were all that the guests could see, and that the interiors were not spoiled by the infrastructure. The result is a space where all surfaces are carefully considered as one seamless and elegant design.”

This is certainly not your typical office setting! The Boston office of international tech company, Criteo, caught our eye due to its quirky and unusual, play-driven design concept. Featuring bright colors, fun texture, and exciting & surprising architectural elements, the innovative workplace designers at Dyer Brown created a vibrant and uplifting work environment that encourages informal collaboration. We spoke to Brent Zeigler, President/Director of Design at Dyer Brown, to discuss how the office design plays into the company’s core belief that workers who are having fun are more productive. Here’s what he had to say:

Criteo: Play Hard, Work Harder by Dyer Brown:

Place for Play

At the center of the fun is the gracefully curved stainless-steel slide that connects the two floors. With the addition of just one small piece of steel, the office had a new, unusual centerpiece that greets visitors with an invitation to play.

Impactful Workspaces

The office layout accommodates 175 employees with workstations of varying heights, conference rooms, a phone room, a mother’s room, a large pantry area, and several lounges. The wide variety of workspaces ensures everyone has a spot that supports their individual work styles.

Positive Environment

Beyond the lobby, the designers introduced fun, playful elements to encourage collaboration and maintain a positive work environment. This includes a game area, custom banquette benches, wood-paneled electric fireplaces, cubby seating with hot pink upholstery, and an original, hand-painted mural-sized graffiti “logo” designed by one of Criteo’s own employees.

With the improvement of science and technology, we’re now able to explore worlds and views we have never been able to see before. Vantage is inspired by the views of our world shot by drones and satellites from above and the highly detailed photos taken with macro lenses and microscopes. This shift in perspective allows us to detach the image from what it is actually representing, resulting in unexpectedly abstract patterns.